New Scottish regulations will allow social landlords to remove domestic abusers from tenancy agreements, allowing victims to stay in their homes.
Regulations laid before the Scottish Parliament will bring into force provisions that were part of the domestic abuse law, which was passed in 2021.
If the changes are backed by ministers, from 1st August 2026, social landlords will be allowed to take legal action to end an abuser’s tenancy, in effect forcing them to move out.
The new rules have been welcomed by domestic abuse campaigners. One of the main drivers of homelessness among women is leaving abusive relationships, with many tenancies either held jointly or solely in the name of their partner.
According to data from SafeLives, 32% of women said domestic violence contributed to their homelessness.
Dr Marsha Scott, chief executive of Scottish Women’s Aid, said the change in the law rightfully ‘moves the consequences of abuse where they belong – the abuser.’
‘Housing is one of the main challenges women face when ending a relationship with an abusive partner and keeping a roof over the heads of their family and avoiding homelessness are critical pressures,’ Scott explained. ‘Not all can stay in their own homes safely, which is why refuge provision is so important, but for the many who could, this regulatory change will bring much-needed reform.’
When the Domestic Abuse (Protection) Scotland Act was passed five years ago, it contained provisions to allow social landlords to act on behalf of survivors by changing the tenancy agreement, but these were not enforced immediately.
Scotland’s housing secretary, Màiri McAllan, said: ‘No one should have to choose between their safety and their home.
‘These new regulations will give social landlords new powers to protect victims of domestic abuse and hold perpetrators to account.
‘By allowing social landlords to take action on behalf of victims, we are removing a significant barrier that has forced too many people to flee their homes to escape abuse.’
Image: Sydney Latham/UnSplash
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